Hyundai Santa Fe Sport

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Model Overview

The Hyundai Santa Fe Sport is the smaller of two Santa Fe badged models, offered in a five-passenger configuration and out to challenge the Ford Edge and Nissan Murano. Interested in the three-row Santa Fe? Get more info HERE.

The Latest Generation

When Hyundai debuted the third-generation Santa Fe for the 2013 model year, the automaker decided to make this popular crossover into a two-vehicle line composed of the short-wheelbase Santa Fe Sport and the long-wheelbase Santa Fe, which replaces the outgoing Veracruz. The Santa Fe Sport’s standard engine is a 2.4-liter I-4, and a 264-hp 2.0-liter turbo-four is optional. Both engines are paired to a six-speed automatic and offer all-wheel drive.

“If exterior and interior styling and the numerous amenities you get for the money are the Sport’s strong suits, its weaknesses are steering and suspension feel,” we said during our First Test review.

In a 2015 midsize crossover comparison between the Ford Edge Sport, Nissan Murano Platinum, and Santa Fe Sport 2.0T Ultimate, the Hyundai finished second. “For less than $40,000, buyers and lessees receive plenty of cabin space and features, along with the requisite tall seating position lusted after by crossover and SUV shoppers.”

“It’s all rather boring and lacking in imagination, though functionally all right,” we added. For 2017, the Santa Fe lineup received a redesigned front and rear fascia in addition to new headlight and taillight designs. The choice of Sport, Eco, and Normal drive mode selections are now standard.

The larger Hyundai Santa Fe is available in six or seven-passenger configurations and is equipped with a 290-hp 3.3-liter V-6.

Why You’d Consider One

Crossover shoppers looking for two rows, a roomy interior, good safety ratings, and plenty of available technology features might appreciate the Hyundai Santa Fe Sport.

Why You’d Look Elsewhere

Crossover shoppers looking for sporty driving dynamics in their Sport-labeled crossover won’t find it in the Santa Fe Sport.